Powerful Quake Rocks Southern Japan: Tsunami Alert Issued, Mall Collapses
Powerful Quake Rocks Southern Japan: Tsunami Alert Issued, Mall Collapses
A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake has struck Southern Japan's Kumamoto, prompting a tsunami alert. Reports of collapsed buildings, injuries, and disrupted services emerge. Stay updated on the aftermath.
A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake rocked Southern Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture today, prompting an immediate tsunami warning that sent shockwaves across the region. While the U.S. Geological Survey initially reported the quake at 7.1, it was later revised to a still formidable 6.8 magnitude. The Japanese government issued emergency warnings, urging residents to evacuate and remain vigilant as the full extent of the disaster began to unfold.
The quake caused widespread panic and significant damage. In Kashima Town, multiple deaths are being reported after an upper storey of the Aeon Mall Kumamoto collapsed, with emergency crews rushing to the scene. Mall operator Aeon confirmed customer evacuations were underway. Beyond the mall, reports quickly surfaced of numerous collapsed buildings, fires, and substantial damage to critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and an elevated highway. Public broadcaster NHK showed alarming footage of large cracks in roads and a derailed freight train, adding to the scenes of chaos.
The initial tsunami advisory, which covered the Ariake and Yatsushiro Seas along the western coasts of Kumamoto, Nagasaki, Fukuoka, and Saga prefectures, was a major concern. Waves measuring up to 1 meter were anticipated, but fortunately, the advisory was lifted within two hours by the Japan Meteorological Agency, with no tsunami detected. This provided a small relief amid the unfolding crisis.
However, the impacts on daily life remain severe. Around 40,000 homes lost electricity, and mobile phone services were disrupted in many areas, complicating communication and emergency responses. Hospitals, such as one in Yatsushiro city, began receiving injured individuals, with approximately 40 people admitted. Historic sites were also affected, with the ancient stone walls of Kumamoto Castle sustaining damage. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addressed the nation, reiterating the need for caution and emphasizing that officials are diligently assessing all reports of damage and working to restore normalcy. Residents are advised to stay alert for aftershocks and follow local emergency guidelines.
